Stemware Types & How To Choose

Stemware is a unique type of glassware, most commonly used for enjoying wine and a few other fermented beverages. Stemware is no ordinary glass vessel — it’s often a crafty piece that’s as beautiful to admire as it is pleasing to hold.

Like there are many wine styles, there are several stemware types. Every type of wine is best enjoyed in a special wine glass. The stemware types matter, especially if you’re into wine, as you’ll want to have a few different types for every type of wine and occasion. What is stemware? And how to choose stemware? Here’s what you need to know. 

What is Stemware?

Most people unfamiliar with wine find it hard to choose the right wine glass for the job. Still, a few tips can point you in the right direction. 

Stemware is any glass, crystal, or plastic vessel with a stem — a thin rod that connects the bowl with the base. This is also where you’re supposed to hold the wineglass, but we’ll get into that in a second. 

Stemware can be cheap or expensive, sturdy and clunky, or refined and elegant. Of course, the type of stemware used impacts your wine-tasting experience, so knowing how to choose stemware matters. 

Are There Different Types of Stemware?

There are different types of stemware. For starters, the material used to make it is significant. Glass stemware is common in casual restaurants, and although the pieces look all right from afar, you’ll notice the glass is thick. This type of stemware is not particularly elegant.

On the other hand, Crystal stemware is spun thinly, and it’s often made artisanally; some are even mouth blown. These pieces offer the best experience, and we consider the finest stemware a luxury item that indeed makes drinking wine more enjoyable. 

Stemware Size is Important

Although the material used to make stemware is essential, the size and shape of the wine glass also matter. Generally, large wine glasses with wide bowls are best suited for red wine. Smaller bowls hold white wine better.

The importance of stemware is simple. By holding a wineglass from the stem, one avoids heating the wine with the warmth of the hand. The temperature of wine matters — too warm, and you might perceive it as overly alcoholic, too cold, and it’s inexpressive. By holding stemware by the stem, you guarantee the wine is at the right temperature. 

Holding stemware by the stem also allows you to swirl the wine effortlessly, revealing its delicious aroma. 

This leads us to the most crucial question:

How to choose stemware?

There’s no right or wrong answer here. A caterer might need inexpensive stemware that’s easy and inexpensive to replace. Wine lovers and connoisseurs might want more sophisticated pieces that elevate their wine-tasting sessions. 

If you’re just getting started in the world of wine, a few red and white wine glasses made of crystal are a great place to start. Of course, stemware is also fun to collect, so you can always expand your collection by adding wine glasses of different shapes and sizes. 

Have a couple of crystal wine glasses and source them from a high-quality producer. If you’re into wine, stemware is a great investment; it will enhance your wine-tasting adventures massively. 

Choosing Your Stemware

Inexpensive stemware is best suited for casual get-togethers. Even plastic stemware has its uses — think of pool parties and the like. Still, if you want to take your wine-tasting skills to the next level, you need the proper wine glasses. 

Crystal wine glasses are the next step on your journey into the wine world. The right stemware types guarantee you’ll always be ready to pop open any wine bottle. What a lovely way to entertain your guests!